Stove Top Mac And Cheese
Creamy stove top mac and cheese features melted Cheddar and a smooth, cheesy sauce, perfect for comforting family meals or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Cook until bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Stir to coat the macaroni evenly.
- Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier mac and cheese, consider using half-and-half instead of milk, or add a splash of cream at the end. If you're out of elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape will work well. Adding a dash of hot sauce can give your dish an extra kick. To elevate the flavor, try mixing in some cooked bacon or sautéed veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this mac and cheese alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or meatloaf for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, try topping it with breadcrumbs and broiling for a crispy finish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring regularly, to ensure even heating without drying out the pasta.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stove Top Mac And Cheese contains roughly 1215 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 126g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 594mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gouda, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can add unique flavors. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for the creamiest texture.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with vegan margarine, use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then combine them when ready to serve. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and mix when you're ready to heat and enjoy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).